N.B. eases burn restrictions, P.E.I. extends ban

An undated stock image of a campfire (Вадим Маркин/Pexels).

New Brunswick has updated its burn restriction policy.

A provincewide burn ban was put in place on Aug. 2, but the New Brunswick government says burning is now allowed between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

According to the province’s fire dashboard, as of 11 a.m. Tuesday there are nine fires burning in New Brunswick. The Beaver Lake Stream fire is considered out of control, the Rocky Brook fire is controlled, and the other seven fires are being patrolled.

Prince Edward Island

A full fire ban was also put in place on Prince Edward Island on Aug. 11 in response to the continued hot, dry weather.

That ban was extended on Monday until Sept. 22 or further notice, according to a news release from the province.

“Campfires and bonfires are banned, including fires on private property and at provincial parks and campgrounds. Provincial fire bans do not apply to the national parks, so visitors to Parks Canada facilities must follow any applicable rules set by Parks Canada,” reads the release.

Domestic brush burning on the island continues to be banned and permits have been revoked for industrial and agricultural burns.

“We were happy to see some rain this weekend, but the long-term forecast is not showing enough rain to justify a return to open burning Forestry staff will be monitoring the conditions closely and we will lift the ban once conditions allow,” said Environment, Energy and Climate Action Minister Gilles Arsenault in the release.

“In the meantime, I continue to be grateful to Islanders for following the rules and first responders for being diligent in their fire response.”

The province says fines for violating the ban can reach up to $50,000, plus victims of crime costs. Those responsible for causing a fire may also be liable for damages.

Nova Scotia

A provincewide burn ban continues to be in effect in Nova Scotia. The fine for violating the ban is $25,000.

The ban applies to open fires, including campfires, bonfires, brush fires, fires in chimeneas, and any other fire that is not enclosed and uses wood as the fuel. Non-woodburning devices, like charcoal and gas barbecues and stoves, are allowed to be used.

Nova Scotia’s burn ban will remain in place until Oct. 15 or until conditions improve.